Oral

In recent years the use of emergency departments for ambulatory care conditions has increased. Several state-based reports have identified dental conditions as one of the primary reasons for emergency department use. Some of the identified conditions are preventable while others are acute. The treatment rendered is palliative and does not manage the disease, nor is there time to address the routine need for professional and self-care. This panel presentation will present the data captured in these reports, actions taken/planned and discuss the impact on the costs of health care. In addition panel members will provide strategies to address this growing public health problem and redesign approaches to preventive and restorative treatment.

Session Objectives: Explain the trends in the emergency room use for dental conditions Describe the impact of and care provided for preventable dental conditions on emergency department utilization. Discuss strategies to rectify the impact on emergency department utilization.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)